Fettuccine with spinach pesto is a delicious and nutritious pasta dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. This dish combines the delicate flavors of fresh pasta with the bold, earthy flavors of spinach pesto.
How To Make:
To make the spinach pesto, begin by blanching the spinach in boiling water for 30 seconds. Drain the spinach and transfer it to a blender or food processor. Add the basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil to the blender and blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Next, cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. After draining the pasta, set aside about 1/4 cup of the cooking liquid. Transfer the cooked pasta to a large mixing bowl and add the reserved pasta water. Toss the pasta to coat with the water.
Add the spinach pesto to the pasta and toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and pine nuts, if desired.
This fettuccine with spinach pesto dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Spinach is an excellent source of iron and vitamins A and C, while pine nuts are high in protein and healthy fats. The Parmesan cheese adds a savory, umami flavor and provides a good source of calcium.
Tips and Variations:
Tips:
Use fresh spinach for the pesto. Frozen spinach can be used, but it may not have the same vibrant green color and fresh flavor.
Before including them in the pesto, toast the pine nuts. This helps to enhance their nutty flavor and give the pesto a richer taste.
Reserve some of the pasta water to thin out the pesto if necessary. This helps to create a smooth and creamy consistency.
Garnish the pasta with some grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
Variations:
Add some roasted cherry tomatoes to the pasta for a burst of sweetness and acidity.
Use a different type of nut instead of pine nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a unique twist on the pesto.
Add some grilled chicken or shrimp to the pasta for added protein.
Substitute the fettuccine with another type of pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, for a different texture.
Add some roasted garlic to the pesto for an extra kick of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fettuccine pasta
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Bring a sizable saucepan of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the spinach pesto. In a food processor, combine the fresh spinach, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Process until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Drain the pasta and put it back in the pot after it has finished cooking. Add the spinach pesto and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
Serve the fettuccine with spinach pesto immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and pine nuts if desired.